HC Deb 06 March 1967 vol 742 c1051
52. Mr. John Lee

asked the Attorney-General how many offences against the State since the rebellion in Rhodesia have been reported to the Director of Public Prosecutions; how many prosecutions have taken place; and if he will make a statement.

The Attorney-General

The Director of Public Prosecutions has looked into a number of matters arising from the rebellion in Rhodesia. No prosecutions have taken place.

Mr. Lee

Is not this rather extraordinary? Several Ministers have referred many times to there having been an illegal declaration of independence. There have been numerous to-ings and fro-ings from Rhodesia by various people giving aid and comfort to the illegal réegime since 1965. Would my right hon. and learned Friend ensure that in future such actions are visited with prosecution?

The Attorney-General

If any case is referred to me with appropriate evidence which would support the taking of proceedings, of course the taking of such proceedings will be considered. As yet, no evidence to support a prosecution has been forthcoming.

Sir Knox Cunningham

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman remember his own phrase in the House about the "dogs of rebellion" breaking loose? In all the circumstances, does he really say that nothing is being done about this matter?

The Attorney-General

I confirm the dangers which result when dogs of rebellion break loose. Perhaps a canine metaphor is a little delicate to raise at the moment, but I would withdraw nothing whatsoever from the statement which I apparently so eloquently made in a debate a long time ago.

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